Definition

Reiter’s syndrome is an inflammatory reaction to an infection somewhere in the body. It usually follows an infection of the urinary, genital, or digestive tract. It is treated with rest and medication.

Causes

Reiter's syndrome is triggered by certain infections. It is usually caused by the bacterium
that causes
chlamydia
. Chlamydia is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner. The infection can also begin in the digestive system. In these cases, the infection occurs after eating food tainted with bacteria.

Urinary Tract and Reproductive System

Other Symptoms

Rash, especially on the palms or soles

Ulcers in the mouth or on the tongue

Weight loss

Poor appetite

Fatigue

Fever

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor uses these findings to help make the diagnosis. There is no specific test to check for Reiter’s syndrome.

Your doctor may need to test your bodily fluids and tissues. This can be done with:

Blood tests

Culture, gram stain, or other tests

Removal of fluid from the affected joints

Your doctor may need pictures of your bodily structures. This can be done with
x-rays
.

Treatment

There is no cure for Reiter’s syndrome. Most people recover from the initial episode within 12 months. Others develop mild, chronic arthritis. Some suffer from additional episodes of the disorder.

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and may include:

Rest

Short-term rest to take the strain off the joints.

Protecting the Joints

This includes:

Assistive devices as recommended by your doctor

Occupational therapy to learn how to take it easy on joints during daily activities

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Questions and answers about reactive arthritis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/health%5Finfo/reactive%5Farthritis/default.asp. Updated October 2012. Accessed May 21, 2013.

Reactive arthritis. American College of Rheumatology website. Available at:
http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/clinical/patients/diseases%5Fand%5Fconditions/reactivearthritis.asp. Updated February 2013. Accessed May 21, 2013.